Women's Cancer Research Center

The mission of the WCRC is to reduce the incidence and death from women's cancer. This mission is achieved through the development and fostering of vibrant basic, translational, and clinical research aimed at translating novel discoveries into improved patient care.

The WCRC provides a supportive environment for a programmatic approach by basic scientists, clinician scientists, clinicians, post-doctoral and clinical fellows and graduate students. Research programs focus mainly on breast and ovarian cancer, but also include other gynecological cancers. Integrated into the research program is an education component aimed at developing the next generation of researchers and physicians in women's cancer.

Major research areas include:

Mechanisms of cancer initiation and progression

Hormone receptor action and resistance to hormone therapy

Risk assessment and reduction

Prevention

Molecular profiling of early disease and progression

Development and testing of new diagnostic, predictive, and prognostic biomarkers

Magee-Womens Breast Cancer Program of UPMC CancerCenter

Magee-Womens Hospital of UPMC and the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute (UPCI), two nationally recognized centers of excellence, collaborate in research and clinical areas to offer the Magee-Womens Breast Cancer Program of UPMC CancerCenter. Magee, a nationally designated Center of Excellence in Women's Health, and UPCI, the region's only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, provide high quality, research-driven care for women with breast cancer.

The Breast Cancer Program incorporates basic and clinical research activities with the ultimate goal to better understand breast cancer biology and to develop more targeted and effective prevention strategies. MRI-guided biopsy, 2D and 3D digital mammography, breast conserving surgery, microvascular breast reconstruction surgery, intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), breast brachytherapy, and clinical trials are foundations for diagnostic and treatment services at Magee. A multidisciplinary breast care team with specialists in radiology; pathology; and surgical, medical, and radiation oncology coordinate patient care. Services for health professionals include opportunities for continuing medical education (CME) and a breast surgery fellowship program; services for patients and the community include public education, a cancer genetics program, supportive and palliative care services, and a model high-risk assessment and surveillance program.